Telecommunications operators in Papua New Guinea have started voluntarily sharing mobile towers to reduce network costs and make better use of existing infrastructure, a move welcomed by the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA).
In a statement released on Thursday 22 October, 2026, NICTA said the initiative could help operators expand mobile coverage, improve service quality and make telecommunications services more affordable for consumers.
The Authority said building and maintaining telecommunications networks in Papua New Guinea remains costly because of the country’s difficult terrain, scattered population and high infrastructure expenses.
These challenges have made it difficult for operators to extend mobile and internet services to rural and remote communities.
By sharing towers instead of building separate facilities, operators can reduce unnecessary costs and use their available funds to improve existing networks or extend services to areas without reliable coverage.
NICTA said the arrangement could also allow operators to invest in new technologies without having to spend as much on infrastructure already available.
“Infrastructure sharing is a practical demonstration that telecommunications operators can work together in the broader interests of the industry and the people of Papua New Guinea,” the Authority said.
NICTA has encouraged operators to consider sharing other facilities, including telecommunications sites, shelters, power systems and network equipment where possible.
However, the Authority said these arrangements must be made on fair and reasonable terms and should not affect competition between telecommunications companies.
It said operators must continue to comply with Papua New Guinea’s telecommunications laws, licence conditions and regulatory requirements.
NICTA will continue monitoring the arrangements and take regulatory action where necessary to protect consumers and maintain fair competition.
The Authority also welcomed the decision by operators to work together voluntarily rather than wait for regulatory intervention to address common industry challenges.
It said cooperation between operators could help reduce the cost of network expansion, particularly in rural areas where building new telecommunications facilities remains expensive.
The initiative is also in line with the Government’s plans to improve digital connectivity and extend telecommunications services to more communities across Papua New Guinea.
NICTA has encouraged operators to continue exploring infrastructure-sharing arrangements that could improve network coverage and make better use of existing investments.
The statement did not identify the operators involved, the number of towers being shared or the locations covered by the initiative.